Question

A nurse is preparing a two-part diagnostic statement for a client with renal failure. Which is the most appropriate way of phrasing the problem in the diagnostic statement?

A) Impaired renal function related to renal failure.
B) Renal failure leading to impaired renal function.
C) Renal failure as evidenced by impaired renal function.
D) Impaired renal function causing renal failure.

Answer 1

The most appropriate way to phrase a diagnostic statement for a client with renal failure is 'Renal failure as evidenced by impaired renal function,' as it clearly links the condition with its manifestation.

Step-by-step explanation:

In constructing a two-part diagnostic statement for a client with renal failure, it is important to accurately reflect the cause-and-effect relationship between the diagnosis and the evidence. In this context, the most appropriate phrasing would be Option C: 'Renal failure as evidenced by impaired renal function'. This option correctly identifies the primary problem, which is renal failure, and presents the impaired renal function as the evidence or manifestation of the disease.

Rapid or chronic decline in renal function leads to a build-up of toxic waste in the blood due to the loss of filtering capacity. The diagnosis of renal failure involves a significant increase in serum creatinine levels or the presence of oliguria, which signals a larger problem with kidney function.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) commonly results from conditions like diabetic nephropathy and glomerulonephritis, and may experience an acute worsening called acute-on-chronic renal failure (AoCRF). Therefore, stating the renal failure as the overriding concern directly aligns with the diagnostic criteria and reflects the evidence based on tests like elevated creatinine levels.